Warning All plants in the genus Astragalus are potentially toxic to humans and animals if ingested, causing a disorder called locoism. The milk from an animal that has ingested Astragalus plants may also be toxic. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person's age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plant's different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil.

Flower March-June.

Habitat Open gravelly ridges and benches with pinyon, juniper, or sagebrush.

Range Southeastern California to western Arizona and northern Baja California.

Of the several low, tufted western Astragalus species with plump, woolly pods, this is the most spectacular. The unusually long red flowers, a rare color in the genus, are positioned to be easily accessible to hummingbirds.